Judith S. Willson

Judith Suzanne Willson (Judi) passed away peacefully the morning of Saturday November 12, 2016. Her 73 years were full of work, volunteering, sports, travel, art and being with friends many from her childhood in Tucson. She never met a stranger and could “talk to a telephone pole, and get an answer”.

Judi is survived by three sisters Jean Ward (Ben), Gayle Buhlke (Larry), Kim Johnson, a brother Jerry Willson (Susie), and a son Robert (Robbie) Brown as well a cloud of loving nieces and nephews. Nieces Natalie Buhlke Ennis and Mary Jean Buhlke McRee were always involved in her life in Tucson. Her niece Elise Ward was her custodian and guardian in the last months.

Judi worked for Social Security for 36 years. After retiring she carried her love of art to work in galleries while continuing to take art classes and paint. She volunteered for the Tucson Opera, political campaigns and Sabino Canyon. She loved the area so much she eventually worked in the Sabino Canyon gift shop.

Judi traveled extensively to France, England, Egypt and Greece with her sisters Jean and Gayle as well as cruises with friends.

She loved both water and snow skiing, dancing, and long walks in the desert and wolves. Yes, wolves she had three and gave generously to rescue groups.

A full life of hard work, fun and happiness too soon ended. Missed by all who loved her.

The family asks that any memorial be to the charity of the donor’s choosing or the Alzheimer’s Association Southern Arizona Chapter (520-322-6601) 3300 S. Country Club #209 Tucson, AZ 85713 or the Mexican Wolf Fund which works to assist with restoring and coexisting with the endangered Mexican Grey Wolf in the southwestern states. Contact: www.mexicanwolffund.org.

A celebration of her life will be held December 5th 5 pm – 10 pm Hacienda del Sol Hacienda Room.